Puppies and kittens should not be weaned from their mothers until after 6 weeks of age and should not be adopted out to new homes before this time. Your puppy/kitten should have their first health check by a veterinarian as soon as possible after you attain them.

Some animals have already attained their first vaccine before they go to their new homes. It is important to complete your puppy or kittens vaccine schedules to protect them from infectious diseases such as parvo (puppies), distemper (puppies), feline leukemia virus (kittens), and rabies (all mammals) that can be potentially fatal to your pet.

Puppy vaccine schedule

Kitten vaccine schedule

It is also important to have your puppy or kitten tested for intestinal parasites. Bring a stool sample with you so your vet can check the sample under a microscope for parasite eggs. Parasites can stunt the growth of your puppy or kitten, make them more susceptible to acquiring infections, and even kill them. De-worming your puppy or kitten is a safe and effective way of protecting them from the harmful effects of intestinal parasites.